Tooth decay refers to a problem in your smile in which natural oral bacteria penetrate your enamel, the outer layer of a tooth. Bacteria then eat away at the enamel, causing irreversible damage to the tooth. When it wears a hole in the tooth, dentists call the dental damage a cavity.
Cavities and tooth decay are common, but you must seek treatment from your dentist right away. The dentist can fix a cavity quickly in most cases with a dental filling. But if the tooth decay advances, it can create significant damage to the tooth that will require more extensive dental work to amend.
Untreated cavities will also endanger the health of the rest of your body in many ways. So do not ignore your dentist’s recommendations to treat tooth decay. Read on to discover three complications that can develop if you do not seek urgent treatment for tooth decay.
Decline in Oral Function
A cavity can present with some uncomfortable symptoms, including tooth sensitivity where enamel has worn enough to expose underlying nerves in the tooth’s interior. In cases of advanced tooth decay, pain can worsen from intermittent jolts to a more constant ache.
Chronic pain in your tooth may lead you to alter your routines and habits, including the way that you eat. You might begin to avoid certain foods or chew only on a certain side of the mouth so that you will not aggravate the damaged tooth.
Not only will you disrupt your diet with these behaviors, but you also could harm your other teeth when you exert extra pressure in certain areas of the mouth. Then you may struggle to complete more oral functions. Avoid this decline in your oral capabilities by addressing tooth decay promptly.
Increased Risk of Sickness
Tooth decay occurs due to oral bacteria eating away at your smile. You cannot get rid of tooth decay on your own. And if decay lingers in your teeth, then so will excess bacteria.
More bacteria in your mouth can mean that you have a greater chance of contracting another illness. And with your body already attempting to fight the bacterial presence in tooth decay, your immune system will be weakened and therefore more vulnerable to sickness. Stay healthier by seeking treatment for tooth decay in a timely fashion.
Severe Oral Infections
When you have a cavity and do not receive urgent treatment, bacteria will continue to erode your dental structure. If enamel deteriorates significantly, bacteria can reach the vulnerable interior of the tooth, which can lead to an infection in the tooth’s pulp.
You will need root canal therapy to treat this issue. And if the infection grows severe, it can easily spread throughout your body. The tooth is close to your brain, which may mean serious consequences if bacteria reach this part of the body.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I chip a tooth but have no pain?
Rinse your mouth with warm water and check for sharp edges that might cut your tongue or cheek. Even if there’s no pain, call your dentist soon to have it checked. Small chips can worsen or become sensitive over time. Avoid biting hard foods until it’s repaired.
Can a lost dental filling be considered a dental emergency?
Yes, a lost filling can be urgent, especially if it exposes the inner tooth. Without protection, bacteria can enter and cause decay or pain. Call your dentist quickly to replace it. In the meantime, keep the area clean and avoid chewing on that side.
How can I tell if soft tissue injuries in the mouth are serious?
If bleeding is heavy, doesn’t stop after 10 minutes of pressure, or if there’s a deep cut, it’s serious. Also watch for swelling, signs of infection, or difficulty breathing or swallowing. Minor cuts usually heal on their own, but deep or persistent issues need prompt care.
What are the risks of leaving a chipped or cracked tooth untreated?
A chip or crack can grow worse, leading to pain, sensitivity, or infection. Bacteria can enter the damaged area and cause decay or even a root canal issue. Treating it early helps prevent bigger problems and keeps your tooth strong.
How do I know if my toothache is an emergency or if I can wait?
If the pain is severe, constant, or comes with swelling, fever, or a bad taste, it’s an emergency. Mild, occasional aches might be able to wait a day or two. Any sudden or worsening pain should be checked by your dentist soon.
Are broken braces or wires a dental emergency?
Broken braces or wires aren’t usually an emergency, but should be fixed as soon as possible. Sharp wires irritate your mouth, so cover them with orthodontic wax until your appointment. Call your orthodontist right away to arrange a repair.
What should I do if I have a sudden swelling in my mouth or face?
Sudden swelling can be a sign of a severe infection, especially if it spreads or is painful. If you have trouble breathing, swallowing, or develop a fever, seek emergency care immediately. Otherwise, call your dentist right away to get it checked quickly.
Do not delay cavity treatment. Talk to your dentist if you notice any symptoms of cavities, including tooth sensitivity and dental discoloration. Visit your dentist on a routine basis as well so that they can diagnose early signs of tooth decay.